NFPA 70E - working in switchgear

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Hello,

We are planning to tie in feeder to one CB in a GE spectra switchgear. The switchgear has a bottom fed incoming service from a transformer (Allegheny Power) outside the building. The CB is a spare breaker that already been installed in the switchgear. The main is a 4000A, the CB is rated for 1600A. Our contractor is already ran all the cables and ready to connected to the lugs at the spare breaker.

A question arises concerning NFPA 70E. We have contractor put on the arc flash suit, We are planning to turn off the 4000A main, verify that all voltages on all phases are zero, lock out/tagout the main. the spare CB is three section away from the main (more than 48"). We are planning to take the back cover off to access the lugs on the spare CB.

Question is based on NFPA 70E, does the contractor have to wear arc flash suit when tieing in to the lugs while the main is off and lockout. My understanding is that the incoming services have barrier thus the buses will be isolated. The only section would have power would be at the main.

or do we just call Allegheny Powers and have them shutoff the xformer outside the building.

Thank you.

Francis.
 

don_resqcapt19

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retired electrician
If there are no physical barriers between the lugs for the incoming service conductors and the point where the new wires are being terminated, you need to have the power company kill the power to the equipment.
 

jim dungar

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PE (Retired) - Power Systems
NFPA 70E is not a how to manual.
You must keep your employees safe from known hazards.

NFPA70E requires you to perform a risk analysis of the work you are going to perform. See the exception to 130.2 (2).
Only you, and your legal team, can decide if your risk is acceptable.

Don't forget to look at things like 130.6(E)(2) concerning conductive materials and tools.
 
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